​Thembisa Shologu
MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi has urged learners from Gauteng schools to refrain from purchasing or consuming unknown substances that put their health and lives at risk.
The MEC issued the alert following a new trend that has resulted in school pupils being hospitalised for consuming 'space cakes'. 
Learners from Randfontein High School in the West Rand and Mamellong Secondary School in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni were hospitalized after consuming these cakes.
'Space cakes' are made with cannabis or other dangerous substances mostly baked by pupils who sell them to other children to get high. 
At least eleven Grade 12 learners at Randfontein High School fell sick during schooling hours on Thursday and were immediately rushed to the hospital. 
It was established that these learners consumed 'space cakes' sold by another Grade 12 learner, who is now facing suspension for breaking the school's code of conduct and endangering the lives of fellow learners.
On Saturday, four Grade 12 learners from Mamellong Secondary School in Tsakane were also alleged to have purchased space cakes on their way to tuition classes, which they consumed and were hospitalized thereafter. 
"We are concerned and dissatisfied at the ongoing consumption of these 'space cakes' where learners become learners sick and are often hospitalized. 
"The conditions of these learners is being closely monitored to ensure their speedy recovery and safe return to their families," said MEC Lesufi.